Many individuals face difficulty when it comes to refusing requests from their supervisors. The challenge often arises from a desire to make a positive impression at work, which can lead to an imbalance in personal and professional life. When work obligations begin to intrude on personal time, setting boundaries becomes crucial.
Experts advise that redefining the language used when setting boundaries can be beneficial. Career coach Helen Tupper from Squiggly Careers suggests changing “I can’t” to “I don’t.” This shift provides a stronger stance that is less open to negotiation. For instance, stating “I don’t attend meetings after 5 PM on Wednesdays because I have family commitments” communicates a firm boundary.
Model and TV chef Lorraine Pascale shares a personal experience of burnout that resulted from not being able to set limits. Juggling her television career, a patisserie business, and parenting led to overwhelming stress. She recognized that her perfectionism and fear of disappointing others contributed significantly to her burnout, manifesting in physical and emotional distress.
Dr. Claire Ashley, author of The Burnout Doctor, emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear work routine. She advocates for adjusting personal goals based on current capacity, prompting individuals to assess whether their aspirations align with their mental and emotional resources.
Lorraine’s journey included taking a step back from cooking and seeking therapy, which helped her understand the roots of her stress and perfectionism. She is now approaching her work more intentionally.
Work-related stress remains a widespread issue, with recent statistics indicating that a majority of employees have experienced significant pressure in the workplace. Experts suggest that open communication with supervisors about workload and the necessity of boundary-setting can facilitate healthier work environments.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn09eklpe24o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss